Our Academic Services provide student-athletes with many tools and skills necessary to achieve academic success through utilization of diverse academic programming which includes advising, major/career exploration, tutoring and individualized study plans. The SDSU Academic Services staff serves as a liaison between academics, athletics and other university programs and helps to facilitate open communication between all areas. Our primary goal is to help student-athletes make satisfactory progress toward graduation and maintain academic eligibility while providing the education and services needed to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle amid the demands of an NCAA Division I institution.

Dykhouse Student-Athlete Center

The Dykhouse Student-Athlete Center (DSAC) was completed in the fall 2010. The DSAC houses the academic center, athletic training, strength & conditioning and football offices. The academic center provides a quiet and comfortable study environment with wireless access, computers and printers as well as other educational aids for all student-athletes.

Academic Advisors

Student-athletes are assigned a primary advisor within their major/department. The academic advisors in the Dykhouse Center provide student-athletes with a second layer of support and cultivate skills to supplement their education. These secondary advisors are available to help student-athletes build a network of resources that will increase their chances of academic and personal success and prepare them for life after college.

Tutorial Support

The Wintrode Student Success Center provides free tutoring services for a variety of courses. Tutoring is available through one-on-one or small group appointments. Wintrode also houses the Writing Center where students can make appointments for assistance with any part of the writing process. Additional academic support services across campus include Supplemental Instruction, Math Help Center and Late Night Larson. Tutors are also available for student-athletes through the Dykhouse Center.

Grade Checks

Grade checks provide necessary feedback to monitor all student-athlete's current performance in their classes. This information enables our academic staff and coaches to assist student-athletes if there are academic concerns. Student-athletes are required to complete grade check forms twice a semester.

Priority Registration

Student-athletes are given the opportunity to participate in early registration which allows student-athletes to accommodate practice schedules while continuing to make progress towards graduation. All student-athletes meet with their primary advisor before registration to ensure they are enrolling in the appropriate classes for their major.

First Year Seminar

Incoming student-athletes will enroll in UC 109 - First Year Seminar (or an equivalent course). This class is intended to introduce students to academic success strategies including the development of critical thinking and study skills, identification of campus resources, guidance in academic planning and engagement, time management and goal setting. This class is intended to help provide a smooth transition from high school to college. This course is a SDSU requirement for all students entering fall 2012 and beyond.

New Student Orientation

Your South Dakota State experience begins with New Student Orientation (NSO). Incoming students attend an orientation session before their arrival to campus. Students are able to get their student ID, select a meal plan, attend informational sessions, and build their schedule with an advisor. Student-athletes will also have the opportunity to meet with a staff member from the Dykhouse Center during orientation. After attending orientation, students often feel much better prepared for life at SDSU.